Overview
Genicular nerve block and ablation are treatment options for persistent knee pain when symptoms continue despite physiotherapy, medication, or joint injections. Knee pain is commonly caused by osteoarthritis, previous injury, overuse, or post surgical changes, and it can significantly affect walking, standing, climbing stairs, and overall mobility.
The genicular nerves are small sensory nerves that carry pain signals from the knee joint. Targeting these nerves can help reduce pain without affecting knee strength or movement. This treatment may be considered for people who are not suitable for surgery or who wish to delay knee replacement.
Who this treatment helps
Genicular nerve block and ablation may be suitable for people with:
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Persistent knee pain not responding to conservative treatment
- Pain limiting walking, standing, or stair use
- Ongoing knee pain after surgery in selected cases
- Limited benefit from steroid or hyaluronic acid injections
- Knee pain affecting sleep, mobility, or daily activities
A consultant assessment is required to confirm whether the genicular nerves are contributing to your symptoms and whether this treatment is appropriate.
What is a genicular nerve block and ablation
A genicular nerve block involves injecting local anaesthetic, sometimes combined with steroid medication, around the genicular nerves that supply the knee joint. This diagnostic block helps confirm whether these nerves are responsible for transmitting pain signals.
If the block provides meaningful but temporary relief, radiofrequency ablation may be recommended. Ablation uses controlled heat to interrupt pain signals carried by the genicular nerves. These nerves are sensory only, so the treatment does not aim to affect knee movement, muscle strength, or joint stability.
Ultrasound or X ray guidance is used to support accurate needle placement and improve safety.
What to expect during the procedure
Genicular nerve block and ablation are typically performed as day case procedures. Your consultant will review the treatment plan and answer any final questions before the procedure begins.
- Confirmation of diagnosis and treatment target
- Comfortable positioning for the procedure
- Cleaning of the skin and local anaesthetic to numb the area
- Image guided needle placement around the genicular nerves
- Injection treatment or radiofrequency ablation depending on the plan
- Short monitoring period before discharge
The procedure itself usually takes a short time, and most people return home the same day.
After the procedure
After genicular nerve block and ablation, mild soreness or bruising around the injection sites is common and typically settles within a few days.
- Temporary soreness at the treatment site may occur
- Some people experience early relief after the diagnostic nerve block
- If ablation is performed, improvement often develops gradually over several weeks
- Normal activities can usually be resumed as comfort allows
- Physiotherapy may be recommended to support knee strength and mobility
Your consultant may also advise gradual return to activity to support longer term improvement.
Benefits
- May significantly reduce knee pain
- Can improve walking, standing, and daily function
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Does not aim to affect knee strength or movement
- Ablation may provide longer lasting relief in selected cases
- May reduce reliance on pain medication
Possible risks and side effects
Genicular nerve block and ablation are generally safe when performed by experienced clinicians, but all procedures carry some risk.
- Temporary soreness or bruising
- Temporary increase in pain after treatment
- Bleeding, uncommon
- Infection, which is rare
- Nerve irritation, uncommon
- No meaningful improvement in some cases
Your consultant will explain the expected benefits, possible risks, and alternative options before treatment.
When to consider other options
If genicular nerve block and ablation are not suitable or do not provide sufficient relief, other treatments may be considered. These may include joint injections such as steroid, PRP, or stem cell therapy, rehabilitation programmes, medication review, or surgical consultation depending on the cause of knee pain.
Safety note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinning medication, have allergies, diabetes, bleeding disorders, active infection, or other significant medical conditions. A full consultant led assessment is essential before proceeding with treatment.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether genicular nerve block and ablation may be suitable for managing your knee pain and improving mobility.
You can also explore our joint pain treatments, view all pain treatments, or learn more about our pain management services.